Stephens Lake in West Virginia

Trip Overview

Lake Stephens is a 300 acre lake that is especially ideal for flatwater kayaking after Labor Day up into early winter. The boats that travel the lake in summer are gone and give way to a handful of serious fishermen. Paddling is easy. Even in the summer, the boaters are careful around the handful of kayakers that frequent the lake and there are several large no-wake coves. The water is calm and relective, and paddling is easy.

The lake is especially scenic in the fall with the changing colors. Wildlife is plentiful. We always see deer, but have also seen racoon, mink, turkey, a black bear, and a resident blue heron. There are also several species of bird (Kingfisher and Woodpeckers e.g.) Beavers can be seen working late each evening up several coves. Fewer than 10 kayakers use the lake...it has been a best kept secret for kayakers.

Accommodations:

The lake has a Marina, Winter Boat Launch at dam (best location to put in kayaks), swimming beach, camping areas, picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, and shelters.

Fees:

None. There is no lauching fee for kayaks.

Directions:

Just follow Harper Road (Rte 3) west from Beckley, WV.
Approximately 9-10 miles out of Beckley you will encounter the turn for Lake Stephens (sign in the turn), just about a thousand feet up this road is the Dam access.